As you drive your car, dirt and grime inevitably make their way into the various systems. While you don’t need to schedule a fuel system flush every year, you can take this preventative measure to increase the lifespan of your car. A little maintenance today always prevents major repair work needed tomorrow, and this advice is definitely true when it comes to maintaining your fuel system.
What is a Fuel System Flush?
Your vehicle’s fuel system is made up of a gas tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, and fuel injectors. Even if you use premium gas in your vehicle, contaminants will still build up over time. This can cause blockages in the fuel lines, as well as issues with the right ratio of oxygen and fuel in your engine.
With a fuel system cleaning, an experienced mechanic will remove any debris in the system. We’ll flush out the old fuel and use a chemical cleaning agent to address any blockages or build-up of contaminants. Additionally, we inspect the entire fuel system to look for any worn parts that need repair or replacement. You may have small leaks (or parts that look like they will be about to start leaking soon) without even realizing it. We’ll also replace your filter if needed.
Some people refer to this kind of flush as a fuel injection cleaning. While we do clean the entire system, we take extra care to make sure there is no build up around your fuel injectors, which are responsible for regulating how much fuel goes into your engine’s internal combustion chamber. Build up or blockages within your fuel injectors can cause major issues while you are driving.
Signs You Need Fuel System Service
Fuel system flushes are typically preventative. That is, it’s important to have it done before you start to notice problems with your fuel system. Most manufacturers recommend a fuel system cleaning around 30,000 miles, but it depends on your vehicle’s make and model. We’re happy to look at the recommendations for your vehicle so you can schedule fuel system service at the right time.
Occasionally, some drivers need a fuel system flush before the preventative maintenance recommendation. Here are a few signs that you could have a blockage or build up in your fuel system:
- Rough idling
- A knocking sound coming from your engine
- Acceleration delays
- Problems starting
- A sticking throttle pedal
- Loss of power when driving
- Stalling when you’re at a stoplight or in stop-and-go traffic
- Engine misfiring
- An RPM needle that is moving erratically
Additionally, if you fail your state emissions test or notice a drastic decrease in gas mileage, it could be because you need a flush. It’s important to bring your vehicle to Kernersville Auto Center so an experienced mechanic can diagnose the problem, since these can be signs of other issues as well.
Other Vehicle Maintenance You Need
Fuel system flushes and other system flushes are important, but they are just the start of your vehicle maintenance needs. Here at Kernersville Auto Center, we always recommend regular maintenance, since it will help your car last longer and prevent breakdowns. Along with fuel system cleaning, you’ll also need:
- Oil changes
- Air filter replacement
- Tire replace and rotation
- Coolant flushes
- Replacement of worn parts (spark plugs, belts, brake pads, etc)
- Battery testing and replacement
- Windshield wiper replacement
It’s important to make sure you’re up to date on all car care, especially as the weather gets warmer and you might be thinking about summer roadtrips you plan to take. Always do a complete car check up before a long road trip.
In addition, we highly recommend regular car washes. Many people do not think about car washes as needed vehicle maintenance. However, having a clean car isn’t just aesthetically pleasing. Road chemicals, insects, rainwater, and dirt can all take a toll on your paint job, causing rust that can become a major problem. We have an automated car wash that makes it easy to keep your vehicle clean. No appointment needed!
FAQs About Kernersville Auto Center
We strive to explain all car care needs in plain language so our customers can understand their options. It’s important to us that you feel empowered to make good decisions about your vehicle. Your questions never annoy our mechanics, and we encourage you to ask as many as you want. Here are a few to get you started.
What does a fuel injection flush cost?
This is a relatively inexpensive service, but the cost depends on your vehicle and if you need a new fuel filter. Feel free to call us to get an exact price quote.
Can I put off this type of maintenance?
We don’t recommend putting off any type of vehicle maintenance. Fuel system build up can lead to very serious blockages over time. You don’t want to find yourself broken down by the side of the road in need of major repairs when you could have had a simple service a few months ago.
What makes your shop the best?
When you need vehicle maintenance, there are no shortages of places to take your vehicle. However, here at Kernersville Auto Center, we treat you like more than just a number. Our customers come back to us again and again not only because we have experienced mechanics but also because we provide top-notch customer service. In fact, you can click here to read reviews from real customers.
Do I need an appointment?
We take walk-ins whenever possible. That said, our shop is often extremely busy. If you don’t want to try your luck or deal with a long wait time, we highly recommend scheduling an appointment. You can call our shop directly or simply click here to schedule your appointment online. That way we can get you back on the road quickly instead of eating up your entire day waiting in line for our next open spot.
